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Doctors reveal 27 symptoms that could signal serious trouble

Doctors reveal 27 symptoms that could signal serious trouble

Economic Times2 days ago
Health News: Most of us brush off common aches, cramps, or sniffles. But doctors say some symptoms, especially when they're severe, sudden, or don't go away, could be signs of something more serious, and should never be ignored, according to a Prevention report.
Dr. Jennifer Maynard of the Mayo Clinic and other experts warn that a few illnesses must be treated quickly, so knowing when to consult a doctor is important to stay safe, as per the Prevention report. Maynard said, 'Certain illnesses and injuries should be evaluated and treated within a narrow time frame—often the sooner, the better,' as quoted in the report.
ALSO READ: Could Air Canada flight attendants' strike ruin your summer vacation plans? Here's what travelers need to know Here are 27 warning signs that indicate that your body may be in real trouble, as complied by the Prevention report.Could signal a stroke, so seek emergency help immediately, ideally within 60 minutes, as per the report.
Dehydration can set in fast, so it's better to get help if symptoms last more than 1 day or worsen, as reported in the Prevention report.Stitches are most effective within 12 to 19 hours. Infection risk rises quickly.ALSO READ: Traverse City Walmart Stabbing: 11 injured, suspect in custody as police probe motive — social media flooded with videos, imagesMay be a broken bone. Get an X-ray as soon as possible to avoid long-term damage.Could be shingles. Antivirals work best within 48 to 72 hours.May signal an STI. Quick treatment prevents complications like infertility.
Talk to a fertility expert if trying for 6 to 12 months without success, as reported in the Prevention report.Could indicate ovarian cancer or an endocrine or autoimmune issue, according to Dr. Kecia Gaither, M.D., OB/GYN and maternal fetal medicine physician, as reported in the Prevention report.Might be a heart issue, not just indigestion. Especially concerning in women.Watch for asymmetry, color changes, or growth, which are possible signs of melanoma.Can signal thyroid disease, vitamin deficiencies, or autoimmune problems, as reported in the Prevention report.Spotting outside your period, or after menopause, needs evaluation. Could be uterine cancer.May point to diabetes, especially with fatigue or nausea.Lumps, swelling, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling can indicate breast cancer.Could be a subtle sign of heart disease, especially in women.May signal a stroke, aneurysm, or brain tumor. Don't try to sleep it off.May indicate internal bleeding. Seek urgent care.Could be caused by infection, blood clots, or heart issues.Ongoing exhaustion could be a sign of anemia, thyroid disease, or mental health conditions.Often linked to UTIs or diabetes, especially with burning or thirst.Could point to mental health struggles or hormonal shifts.May signal cancer, thyroid dysfunction, or emotional distress.Fast belly weight gain can mean heart or liver issues, as reported in the Prevention report.
Can be a sign of a stroke or diabetes.Persistent swelling may signal heart, kidney, or liver issues, as reported in the Prevention report.Can relate to depression or underlying illness. Get checked if it's unusual.If you're not thinking clearly, it could signal infection or a neurological issue, as reported in the Prevention report. I'm losing weight without trying, should I see a doctor?Absolutely. Unexplained weight loss can sometimes be an early sign of serious conditions, as per the Prevention report.
Is it normal to feel thirstier than usual? Not always. Constant thirst, especially with frequent peeing or fatigue, can be a sign of diabetes, as per the Prevention report.
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5 Blood Tests Every Woman Needs To Track For Real Health Insights: Nutritionist
5 Blood Tests Every Woman Needs To Track For Real Health Insights: Nutritionist

NDTV

time4 hours ago

  • NDTV

5 Blood Tests Every Woman Needs To Track For Real Health Insights: Nutritionist

Ever looked at your blood test report, seen everything marked "normal," and still felt off? You are not alone. Nutritionist Rashi Chowdhary is calling out the hidden gaps in how we read our lab results. In a recent Instagram video, she explains how standard lab ranges might actually be covering up real health issues, especially in women. "Because most lab ranges aren't based on what's healthy, they're based on an average," she says, pointing to a crucial yet often overlooked truth. She continues, "And where are those averages coming from? They come from people who are already tired, inflamed and unwell because these are the people who are actually going to get their blood work done, right?" According to Rashi, laboratories like LabCorp, Quest, Mayo Clinic, ThyroCare, SRL, or even Metropolis in India build their reference ranges from sick populations. She explains, "So when your results say that your thyroid or B12 is normal but you still feel off, that's not something in your head, it's just because the system is broken. Look, you're being compared to the average, not the optimal." What is the solution? "You have to stop chasing normal, start looking for optimal reference ranges and use functional medicine reference ranges because those are more accurate. The ones that actually reflect real well-being," says the nutritionist. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rashi Chowdhary (@rashichowdhary) She then highlights five basic blood tests that every woman needs to track with their optimal ranges. "These ranges are policy-based, requiring long-term data, expert consensus & time-consuming regulatory approval," she says. "This rigorous process means they're slow to catch up to newer research, real-world clinical results & what many practitioners actually see working for patients in real life." 5 Essential blood tests for women 1. Fasting insulin As per Rashi, it "detects early insulin resistance even if your glucose is normal." The optimal range is ideally between < 4-6 uIU/mL for optimal metabolic and hormonal function. She suggests to start paying attention if it is above 8. 2. TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) "Even borderline thyroid issues can affect periods, mood, metabolism, and fertility," she mentions, adding, "Symptoms often appear even when TSH is still considered 'normal' by labs." The optimal range is 1.0-2.2 mIU/L. 3. Progesterone & estrogen (estradiol) She tells, "These hormones need to be in the right ratio - not just individually 'normal' - especially during the luteal phase," further highlighting that the progesterone for the mid-luteal phase. Going as per the cycle, she elaborates - The optimal range of Progesterone on Days 19-21 of a 28-day menstruation cycle should be 22-25 ng/mL, as it is optimal for ovulation and hormone balance. The optimal range of Estradiol on Days 2-4 of the cycle should be 30-50 pg/mL. She mentions that this is considered a healthy baseline, as too high ranges mean estrogen dominance, while too low leads to poor ovulation or low reserves. The ideal ratio between Progesterone and Estrogen (Pg/E2) is 300-500:1, she says, adding, "Please don't calculate this from the above tests, this is a separate test." "I know serum ranges are not accurate & when required we do offer DUTCH plus test on the ONE Program." 4. HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin) Rashi clarifies that this reflects average blood sugar levels over 3 months, which is helpful even in lean PCOS, fatigue, or weight issues. The optimal range is < 5.4%. But when correlated with Insulin & HOMA IR, which is linked to early insulin resistance, even a range of 5.5-5.6% is considered good. 5. Prolactin She tells, "Check this if you've ruled out everything & struggling to lose weight and deal with symptoms like low mood, depression like symptoms, irregular periods or acne. Elevated prolactin can mess with ovulation, libido, and thyroid hormone conversion," adding, "Even slight elevations can interfere with cycle regularity." The optimal range is < 15 ng/mL for women not pregnant or breastfeeding. In the concluding note, the nutritionist suggests referring to these ranges the next time you get your labs done. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

Persistent stomach pain? 12 serious health conditions every adult should know about
Persistent stomach pain? 12 serious health conditions every adult should know about

Time of India

timea day ago

  • Time of India

Persistent stomach pain? 12 serious health conditions every adult should know about

Persistent stomach pain means discomfort in your belly region that sticks around for weeks, months, or even longer. Unlike an occasional cramp or a brief stomachache, this pain doesn't fully go away and often comes and goes in a pattern, or it might gradually get worse. The abdomen holds a ton of important organs, your stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, kidneys, reproductive organs, and more, so pinpointing what's wrong can be tricky. Common and uncommon reasons why your stomach won't quit hurting According to Mayo Clinic, a major trusted US healthcare resource, abdominal pain causes stretch from the simple and harmless (like indigestion or muscle strain) to the complex and serious (such as cancer or organ disease). Studies in primary care settings show that about one in ten patients with abdominal pain actually have acute or urgent medical issues that need immediate attention. Here's an easy-to-scan breakdown of notable conditions that often underlie persistent abdominal pain: Digestive issues Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) IBS is like that annoying roommate who never leaves. It messes with your gut, especially the large intestine, causing cramping, bloating, gas, and unpredictable bathroom runs. There's no obvious damage in your intestines, but the pain and discomfort feel very real and very frequent. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) If you constantly feel like your lunch is trying to climb back up, GERD might be the culprit. It's when stomach acid flows the wrong way into your esophagus, leaving a burning feeling in your chest or throat. It's not just heartburn it can become a daily struggle if left untreated. Gastritis and peptic ulcers Your stomach lining isn't invincible. Inflammation (gastritis) or open sores (ulcers) can cause sharp or burning pain in your upper belly. Often caused by an H. pylori infection or too many painkillers like ibuprofen, these conditions also bring nausea, bloating, and that gnawing empty-stomach feeling. Celiac disease This autoimmune condition means your body goes to war with gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Eat it, and you could end up with stomach pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and nutrient deficiencies. It's more than a trendy gluten-free diet; it's a serious medical issue. Inflammatory & infectious causes Diverticulitis Little pouches can form in your colon (called diverticula), and sometimes they get infected. When that happens, welcome to diverticulitis. It usually causes pain in the lower left side of your belly and might come with fever, nausea, and even constipation. Crohn's disease & ulcerative colitis Both are forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and they love to stir up trouble. Think chronic pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and sometimes weight loss. Crohn's can affect any part of the digestive tract, while ulcerative colitis sticks to the colon and rectum. Either way, it's a painful and ongoing battle. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) For women, lower abdominal pain could be caused by PID, a serious infection of the reproductive organs. It often stems from untreated STIs and can bring fever, unusual discharge, and pain during sex. If not treated early, it can lead to long-term issues like infertility. Structural & functional problems Gallstones These tiny troublemakers form in your gallbladder and can block the flow of bile. When that happens, you might get hit with sudden, intense pain in your upper right abdomen—pain that often shows up after a fatty meal and sticks around for hours. Kidney stones If you've ever felt like your body is trying to pass a jagged rock, that's a kidney stone. The pain usually starts in your back or side and radiates down to your lower belly or groin. It comes in waves and is often brutal. Hernias When an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in your abdominal wall, it's called a hernia. You might notice a bulge and feel pain when you cough, lift, or even laugh too hard. It's not just annoying—it can become serious if not treated. Serious conditions to watch for Cancer Ongoing belly pain that doesn't go away could point to something serious like cancer. Tumors in the pancreas, liver, or intestines often don't show symptoms early on, but when pain shows up, especially if it gets worse over time, it's time to see a doctor. Vascular problems Chronic mesenteric ischemia is a rare but serious condition where blood flow to your intestines gets restricted. You'll often feel cramping pain after eating because your digestive system isn't getting enough oxygen. It's sneaky but dangerous if missed. Appendicitis Starts as a dull ache around your belly button and then suddenly shifts to the lower right side—that's the classic sign of appendicitis. It can come with nausea, fever, and a sense that something's not right. It's a medical emergency, so don't wait it out. A 2014 systematic review published in Family Practice highlighted that about a third of abdominal pain cases have no definitive diagnosis after initial evaluation, underscoring the complexity and diagnostic challenge clinicians face. Still, the most common diagnoses among U.S. primary care patients presenting with abdominal pain were gastroenteritis (7-19%), irritable bowel syndrome (3-13%), urological causes like kidney infections or stones (5%), and gastritis (5%). More recent gastroenterology research emphasizes the need to consider less obvious causes like vascular diseases—for example, median arcuate ligament syndrome (a rare compression of an artery) and chronic mesenteric ischemia, both of which can cause persistent or recurrent abdominal pain. These are less common but can be overlooked, especially if a patient has risk factors like smoking, diabetes, or heart disease common in US populations. Why is it important to know this? In the US, where lifestyle factors such as high-fat diets, obesity, and sedentary living are prevalent, risks for digestive and vascular causes of abdominal pain may be higher. For instance, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which can cause liver pain, is on the rise and can lead to more serious liver damage if left unchecked. Similarly, obesity and diabetes increase risk for gallstones and vascular issues that cause chronic abdominal symptoms. If your abdominal pain is persistent, worsening, associated with symptoms like unintentional weight loss, vomiting, blood in stool or urine, jaundice (yellowing of eyes/skin), fever, or changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks, seek medical help. These could be signs of serious underlying diseases needing prompt diagnosis and treatment. Primary care physicians often use a combination of detailed history, physical exams, lab tests, imaging (ultrasound, CT scans), and sometimes endoscopies to find the cause. They may refer you to gastroenterologists, surgeons, or other specialists for more advanced care. Lifestyle and prevention tips Though causes can be varied, there are some general tips for better gut and abdominal health: Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables. Stay hydrated and exercise regularly. Limit excessive use of NSAIDs, alcohol, and smoking. Manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Report new or persistent pain to a healthcare provider.

Smoke in New York: Canadian wildfires worsen air quality
Smoke in New York: Canadian wildfires worsen air quality

Hindustan Times

time2 days ago

  • Hindustan Times

Smoke in New York: Canadian wildfires worsen air quality

The skies over New York turned hazy again on Saturday as smoke from Canada's wildfires drifted south, prompting state officials to issue a health advisory. The alert, covering New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, and the Adirondacks, warns that the air is now 'unhealthy for sensitive groups.' Canada's wildfires are causing widespread air quality concerns in the U.S., with advisories issued for New York and surrounding areas. Pitts Stop Garage/via REUTERS (Pitts Stop Garage via REUTERS) Also Read: Michigan stabbing: Meet Derrick Perry, the brave shopper who stopped Walmart attacker Notice issued by DECD amid bad air quality The notice came from the state Department of Environmental Conservation and Department of Health, both posting the message on X. Anyone with breathing issues, especially kids and older adults, is being told to limit time outdoors. "DEC and @HealthNYGov have issued an air quality health advisory today, July 26, for Long Island, NYC Metro, Lower and Upper Hudson Valley, and Adirondacks due to smoke from wildfires in Canada. Air Quality Hotline: 1-800-535-1345," read the post. Wildfires across Canada are still burning out of control. Tens of thousands of residents have been forced to leave their homes. The smoke is crossing the border, turning much of the northern U.S. into a haze-filled zone. AQI climbs above 100 According to the BBC, State officials revealed that the air quality index is expected to top 100, with some areas pushing 135. Numbers like that mean the air can irritate lungs and trigger asthma or heart problems. Parts of New England are also dealing with the same conditions. The AQI is a simple scale: the higher the number, the worse the pollution. Anything over 100 is considered a health risk for vulnerable groups. These warnings have become all too familiar this summer. In mid-July, Chicago dealt with a similar alert as smoke rolled across the Midwest. Also Read: New Jersey weather radar: Flood, power outages hit NJ and New York amid NWS warnings Wildfires raise political concerns The smoke has even become a political issue. Earlier this month, six U.S. lawmakers sent a letter to Canada's ambassador, saying the haze was making life miserable for Americans trying to enjoy summer. Canada is currently fighting more than 550 active fires, with most centered in Manitoba. Around 6.1 million hectares - about 15 million acres - have already burned in the past year. In May and June, 30,000 people were evacuated in Saskatchewan and Manitoba after states of emergency were declared, according to the BBC. Experts say climate change is behind the worsening fire seasons. Canada is warming at roughly twice the global average, while its Arctic regions are heating up almost three times faster. FAQs Why is New York's air quality so bad right now? Because smoke from Canadian wildfires has drifted into the region. Which areas are under alert in New York? Long Island, NYC metro, Lower and Upper Hudson Valley, and the Adirondacks. How bad is the air quality index today? It's forecasted to be above 100, with some areas hitting 135. Are Canadian wildfires linked to climate change? Scientists say rising temperatures are making wildfire seasons longer and more intense. How many wildfires are burning in Canada? Authorities report more than 550 active fires, mostly in Manitoba.

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